I Love Technology and the Web. Video fascinates me so I create them sometimes. I live In South Africa and I love it. Social Media is my playground and Gadgets are my buckets.
If you have idea's for my channel why don't you pop me a message? You should subscribe to me. It makes me happy.
Пікірлер
I have been hiking Fanie Botha every year since 2014. Def a classic for me!
Stunning
I did the trail run 64km 2 days age 15
I walked that very same route with 2 friends in 1977. It also took us 5 days. I remember us paying R5 for a big tray filled with toasted samies and chips when we reached our final destination at Waterfall Bluff (opposite side to Port St Johns. We took an epic ride back to Port Edward in a SA railways bus. That in itself was a one off life experience
Dope! Did Mnweni loop last month over three days. But the route you did seems pretty nice! I'd see if I can do something similar next time. Thanks for the video - did not really take pictures, so it was great to re-live it.
That’s the incredible thing about the Drakensberg, you get off the mountain with an even stronger desire to get back onto it 🚀
Nice storytelling...and footage. A little too much of scary stuff put it :) Being an experienced hiker (really experienced) covers it all. Well done.
Hi Arie, this will be a walk in the park for you 😉
Oh no, not a walk in the park lol. But I did complete a solo grand traverse 2 weeks ago in 10 days :) Not sure I would have done this if I saw your clip before 😅
@@afishler 🎉 that is incredible! How did you enjoy it? Will you do it again? Are you happy you hadnt seen this video before? 😆 Imagine if you never did it 😱
Oh...it was an intense experience. I had my low points but it is part of the experience. I did notice afterwards that locals see me as crazy when hearing about that 😃I definitely prepared by going over some videos and lots of text. I'm really happy I did not watch yours before as it was the scariest 😂 I saw the one from these 6 days guys you met, I think. It's here on KZread :) All in all part of being experienced, I think, is the ability to understand the subjective point of view on what is described in the content. Naturally there are many challenges but I would describe it differently. Drakensberg might not be the most beautiful route in the world but it is definitely a very unique scenery and experience
I think I will take some quotes of yours to my lecture. If I went through a crazy experience mind as well do a lecture about it 😅
Absolutely astounding! Drone footage shows how incredible the area truly is. And love the tent 😍 How do you find it holds up in SA conditions (berg/Cederberg in winter; wind) or is that the Solid?
Thanks so much, Edwin! 💪 This area is truly remarkable. I was ecstatic when I saw how well it was captured in the video. This is the X-mid 2 standard version. I have yet to use it in the Drakensberg (I have a trip coming up at the end of April), but it has proven to be durable and surprisingly warm when I used it towards the end of winter. I must admit I'm a bit nervous about the potential Drakensberg winds, but only time will tell! I'll definitely keep you updated 🤘 This is the first 2-person tent that can actually accommodate two people comfortably. This was our first hike where we decided to ditch a tent and just take this one as a trial, it worked out perfectly! When I've used this tent solo, it feels like I'm in a palace. I'm really pleased with it. Those winds, though 🌬️, will be the real test!
I heard it’s actually extremely adept in high winds if you use all the guy lines etc so I’m sure it will hold up in the berg winds! Will be hiking there myself in May so please do provide feedback - always wondered how the mesh inner would cope in our winter (as opposed to going for the xmid solid). Otherwise I’m looking forward to seeing your video on that one after this absolutely exquisite footage 🤩
Will definitely feedback 💪
Really enjoyed the drone footage and soundtracks. Have added this hike to our list.
Thanks so much for watching and for the feedback On The Road again! You won’t be disappointed when you do visit 🏜️💪
Very happy to have found your channel, you make me feel better about our future in SA for some reason. “When everything feels like an uphill struggle, I think of the view from the top” anon
Colin, thank you so much for these kind words. This country is truly incredible, ny wish is that everyone could experience it, even if only for a couple of weeks in their life. In many ways, we are fortunate to live on the doorstep of this remarkable wonderland. We just need to look up, beyond the struggles perhaps, to see the promising view ahead, just as you wrote. Let's keep moving forward!
Reminds me of the old Soutpansberg trail which I did decades ago but sadly no longer exists although 2 of the huts (Hanglip and Entabeni) can still be seen on Google Earth.
Ah, Stephen, the number of trails I have discovered traces of in the history books that no longer exist pains me! It serves as a reminder that we must appreciate what we have in the now and to take the opportunities that are available to us today, instead of constantly saying "One day" as we often do.
This looks simply amazing my friend 👏👏
Cape Town is one to put on your Bucket list! You can be in the city picking up a coffee at a cafe and minutes later be in the mountains, and then in the clouds.
Rim of Africa is definitely on my to-do list!
Hi Ruth, I was incredibly excited to see a comment from you! You've added so much value to the South African hiking community with your content, both on KZread and on the forums. Thank you for everything you do! I think you'll absolutely love the RIM. The people there are fantastic, and the experience is right up your alley based on your videos I have seen. I have no doubt you'll have a blast!
Thank you so much! What a lovely comment! I really enjoy making videos, and I'm thrilled that they can help people out@@EdwinWatson
Wow wow and WOW! 😂❤ I've never considered it, but I am now.
Roy that's great news! Please let me know how you enjoy it. I don't doubt for a second that it will be one of your highlights of the year. Good luck and enjoy every step 🥾
What a spectacular trek! Well done indeed. I'm still too scared of the high peaks. I love to do multi day hikes on the lower elevations and working up courage and experience to go up all the way!
You have no idea how much I appreciate this kind of thought process. Far to many people dont fully comprehend the dangers of the berg, putting themselves in extreme danger. I would highly recommend trying out the Mnweni route which I don't doubt for a second you will be able to do and help you build up towards concurring all the peaks of the mighty Drakensberg in the years to come.
Thank you for your reply and for the great advice. Much appreciated.
Epic
Hi Edwin. Love you work. Brilliant video.
And I love yours Eck!
Thanks for sharing, I'm hoping to do this section next year (2024)
It’s an incredible traverse to do Allen! You won’t be disappointed.
This is Awsume!!👍
Thanks so much Clive 💪🥾
Beautiful Edwin, I enjoyed watching it. It truly is an amazing place. We recently hiked from Port Edward to Mtentu Lodge and spent two days exploring the surroundings of Mtentu River. Video can be found on my KZread channel. Looking at your footage it's clear we have to continue through to Mboyti.
Thanks so much for watching Bert 💪 I would love to go back and spend more time at Mboyti like you did!
Thanks for this. When is the best time to go?
Hi Celeste, you can hike the Wild Coast of South Africa anytime of the year but the best time is between March to June or September to October. Here are some things to consider: Summer (November to February): The weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 27-29°C. This is the best time to hike if you want to swim in the ocean and enjoy the beaches. However, it can also be quite humid, and there is a risk of thunderstorms. Autumn (March to May): The weather starts to cool down, with average temperatures ranging from 22-25°C. Days while not as long as summer are still great. Winter (June to August): The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 18-21°C. However, the days are short, and there is a chance of rain. Spring (September to October): The weather starts to warm up, with average temperatures ranging from 22-25°C. This is a good time to hike if you want to see the wildflowers in bloom which actually starts in August. The days are also longer. However there is a chance of thunderstorms. PS: Thanks for the sub ❤️
Thanks for the insight! What dates were you there?
What a hike my friend, this trail is spectacular! Absolutely and totally spectacular! 🔥
Thanks for always showing your support and love Ervin 💪
Sad how the locals looted and destroyed the Fish River Sun.
Worth listening through, there is so much insight and history to hiking these prestige lands. Can't wait to hike here soon :) Loved what you had to say between 6:17-7:24, so important!
Thanks for highlighting this Steph!
Lovely video and well done.
Thank you so much 😎
Nice!! Looks fun bro!
Great hike! Well worth it.
Nice!! Looks fun bro!
It’s a great starter hike for newbies and a relaxing yet enjoyable one for veterans. Well worth the effort.
It’s a great starter hike for newbies and a relaxing yet enjoyable one for veterans. Well worth the effort.
Thanks for a great review Edwin! Do you think this hike would be safe for a small group of girl guides to do without adults?
Hi Natanya. I doubt Safcol would allow it but even if they did I wouldn’t say so. This hike is fairly remote with limited signal in many spots, and you could get lost, and while I don’t think any of the loggers working in the plantations would do anything I don’t feel it’s worth the risk. Also take into account that this is shared accommodation and any random person could be hiking and staying with the group. I would highly recommend getting at least 2 responsible adults with experience to do this trail with the group. I am certain that Safcol will have someone they could recommend!
@@EdwinWatson thanks so much!
Brilliant, thank you for this, hiking fanie this weekend.
Amazing Stella! Let me know how it goes and enjoy every second of it 🥾
That's another great hike Edwin! That's the best part of hiking, you can go from easy to hard and from short to long, as you define the path. Great video Fanie Botha looks epic.
Thanks Mario. If you ever come through to South Africa let me know! Will be great to take you into the Drakensberg mountains and some other trails.
Great hike bud, you filmed and narrated this brilliantly! Love it 🥾
Thanks so much Ervins. Safe travels!
Hi Edwin Thank you for your insight and clips. I'm running the MacMac 100mile next week and have never hiked the trail. So your video is much appreciated. Hope to see more.
Eck you are a real machine! This will be a walk in the park for you 😉 wishing you all the best. You will love it!
I really enjoyed your perspective.
Thanks Drakensberg Hiker 🧡Love the work you are doing getting people into the berg and appreciate the knowledge you dispense on your channel. Keep it up 💪
Thanks for a great video!
Thanks so much Empie!
Great video.
Thanks so much Hilton!
Awesome video! Did you go during rainy season? I’m flying out next Sunday trying to reach Madonna pass
Hi Jorge, we did go during the rainy season. This time of year is better rain wise. Madonna is not easily accessible and will take at least one and a half days on foot to get to whether you go to it from Mnweni(see my other video on this area) or from the chain ladders. The easier route is probable vie chain ladders but it’s by no means easy. Expect to be out there for at least 2 nights if not 3.
Hello Edwin Beautiful video and I just wanna say you've totally inspired me to go out in nature and enjoy God's Masterpiece, if I have this beautiful experience sans adder experience. Doing my first Castle gorge hike on Saturday
Ahh Mpho you in for a treat! Castle gorge is indeed a created masterpiece made for us to marvel in. Please let me know how you enjoy castle gorge 😃 it’s the best hiking trail close to jhb in my opinion.
Hi Edwin It is so Awesome to see you guys on KZread. Wat a brilliant video with lots of insight. It was me Van Eck Zwiegers & Kyle Lotter the 2 on the Grand Traverse. Check it out on Drakensberg Grand Traverse | EckRun | Captain to Captain Hope to see more of your work. Maybe on our next Adventure
You guys were incredible! Congratulations on completing the journey you set out to do and sharing it with us! You were both huge motivators for us, knowing how far the both of you were going each day made our journey feel minuscule and made us push just a little harder. Legends!
One year later. And your video just gets better.🤝
What a great hike. Well done!
Awesome video mate
Thank's Bru! 🧡🎸🤟
VIEWS
The best in the world!
Amazing. That adder gave me the heebiejeebies 😅
Looking up after hearing the hiss 🐍 made freaked me out. Have seen them but never has it been this close. Thanks for watching the video ❤
Great video Edwin. We’ll done.
Thanks so much Craig!
Love the new approach! So glad you conquered and persevered 💜🤗
Thanks Mands 💜 one of our biggest supporters 🙃
Well done Ed's and Steph . This looks amazing 👏 😍
@@nokuthula773 thanks T 🙏
This looks awesome! If you enjoyed this, then have a look at the Tufa waterfalls in the Blyde river canyon. Also, Mariepskop, which is one of my fave places to go to, amazing rainforest midway and high altitude flora on top. There is a hiking trail too.
Thanks so much for the recommendation Flubberdish!
@@EdwinWatson I'll forward you some pics.
Wow! beautiful place and beautiful people 🤩
Ahhh Sofie 😉❤️
Beautiful
Thanks Sims 👍
What a stunning presentation my friend, this looks insanely beautiful! Shots are simply spectacular, love it!
Thanks so much Ervin!
Great vid. Looks amazing, we’ll done
Thanks Craig!
Well done guys. Looks awesome.
It was a great trip Gords! We still have so many more places to explore🔎
Looks like an awesome hike!
Its an amazing hike Dave! If you ever in the Gauteng region of South Africa make sure you try visit. It makes a perfect day hike.
What a beauty❤, thank you for sharing